Studies in Ancient Hindu Polity (Based on the Arthashastra of Kautilya), Vol. I c7.s1.1

c7.s1.1

The Government of Chandra Gupta addressed itself in various ways to the protection of lower animals. There were issued specific regulations affording State protection to certain classes of animals, and for this purpose were also established and maintained forests (अभयवन), the animals whereof were exempted from capture, molestation and slaughter. Into these forests none could enter, and the violation of this rule was visited with fines.¹ For the enforcement of these regulations a special superintendent was appointed called सूनाध्यक्ष (gamekeeper).